Lone Star's Amarillo Cheese Fries and Dip

Lone Star's Amarillo Cheese Fries and Dip Recipe - A Classic American Appetizer

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Lone Star's Amarillo Cheese Fries and Dip is a delicious and indulgent appetizer that combines crispy spicy fries with melted cheese, bacon, and a tangy ranch dressing dip. This recipe is perfect for sharing with friends and family at gatherings or as a fun snack for movie nights.

History

This recipe is inspired by the popular appetizer served at Lone Star Steakhouse & Saloon, a chain of casual dining restaurants known for their Texas-inspired cuisine. The Amarillo Cheese Fries and Dip have become a fan favorite for their bold flavors and satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

8 oz (227 g) bottle (1 cup) of ranch salad dressing
0.5 (1.25 oz or 35 g) packet of taco seasoning
32 oz (907 g) package of frozen spicy french fries - prepared as directed
4 strips of cooked bacon - crumbled
0.5 cup of shredded colby jack cheese

How to prepare

Combine ranch dressing and taco seasoning; set aside.
Sprinkle cheese and bacon evenly over the fries on the baking sheet.
Return the fries to the hot oven until the cheese has melted.
Serve the fries with the prepared sauce for dipping.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add sliced jalapenos or diced tomatoes for extra flavor. You can also customize the seasoning by using different spices or adding hot sauce for a kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure that the cheese melts evenly and the fries stay crispy, be sure to spread the cheese and bacon evenly over the fries before returning them to the oven. You can also broil the fries for a few minutes at the end to achieve a golden brown and bubbly cheese topping.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Amarillo Cheese Fries and Dip as a starter or snack alongside a cold beer or refreshing cocktail. Pair with a side salad or fresh veggies for a balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Bake the fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Make sure to flip the fries halfway through cooking to ensure they are crispy on all sides.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use store-bought frozen fries or make your own from scratch using russet potatoes. Feel free to swap out the jack cheese for cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the ranch dressing and seasoning mixture ahead of time and store in the fridge until ready to use. You can also cook the bacon in advance and crumble it when assembling the fries.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Amarillo Cheese Fries and Dip on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs or green onions for a pop of color. Use small ramekins for individual portions of the ranch dressing dip.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this indulgent dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a cold beer like a pale ale or lager. The tangy ranch dressing dip complements the spicy fries and rich cheese perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F until warmed through and crispy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 400 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 35g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 25g per serving

Saturated Fat: 8g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 8g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

Contains dairy and gluten from the ranch dressing and cheese. Bacon may contain allergens such as soy or wheat.

Summary

While this dish is high in fat and calories, it can be enjoyed in moderation as a tasty treat.

Summary

Lone Star's Amarillo Cheese Fries and Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines crispy fries, melted cheese, bacon, and a tangy ranch dressing dip. This indulgent dish is perfect for sharing with friends and family at gatherings or as a fun snack for movie nights. Enjoy in moderation for a tasty treat that is sure to satisfy your cravings.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Lone Star's Amarillo Cheese Fries and Dip. It was a warm summer day, and I had ventured out to a local food festival with some friends. As I wandered through the rows of vendors and food trucks, the savory scent of cheese and spices wafted through the air, drawing me closer to a bustling booth with a sign that read "Lone Star's Tex-Mex Delights."

Curious and hungry, I made my way to the front of the line and ordered a plate of their famous Amarillo Cheese Fries. As I took my first bite, I was immediately hooked. The crispy fries, gooey cheese, and zesty dip combined to create a flavor explosion in my mouth that I had never experienced before. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish at home.

I struck up a conversation with the friendly cook behind the counter, who was more than happy to share the recipe with me. As he walked me through the ingredients and cooking techniques, I could see the passion and pride he had for his craft. I scribbled down notes furiously in my notebook, determined to recreate the magic of Lone Star's Amarillo Cheese Fries in my own kitchen.

When I got home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients and getting to work. I chopped, grated, seasoned, and fried with precision, following the cook's instructions to the letter. As the dish came together, I could hardly contain my excitement. The aroma that filled my kitchen was intoxicating, and I knew I was on the right track.

Finally, the moment of truth arrived. I plated up the fries, drizzled the cheese sauce over the top, and dipped a crispy fry into the zesty dip. As I took a bite, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. It was as if I was back at that food festival, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and flavors that had captured my heart.

From that day on, Lone Star's Amarillo Cheese Fries and Dip became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on lazy Sunday afternoons. Each time I served it, I would recount the story of how I came to discover this recipe, and it never failed to bring a smile to my face.

As the years passed, I continued to refine and perfect the recipe, adding my own little twists and tweaks to make it truly my own. I shared it with friends, neighbors, and anyone who was willing to give it a try. And without fail, it became a crowd favorite wherever it went.

I often think back on that fateful day at the food festival, and how a chance encounter with a humble cook led me to uncover a culinary gem that would bring me so much joy and satisfaction. It just goes to show that sometimes, the best recipes are the ones that find you when you least expect it.

So here's to Lone Star's Amarillo Cheese Fries and Dip, a dish that holds a special place in my heart and on my dining table. And to the cook who shared his secret with me, wherever he may be, I can only say thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your generosity and passion for food have inspired me in ways you will never know.